Navigating Roofing Permits and Inspections in Snohomish County: A Homeowner's Guide
Introduction
Your roof is more than just the top layer of your home—it's your primary defense against the elements. When it's time for a roof replacement or significant repairs, understanding the permit and inspection process is crucial to ensure your project is completed safely, legally, and to high-quality standards.
For homeowners in Snohomish, Skagit, and King Counties, navigating the permitting process may seem overwhelming, but with the right information, you can approach your roofing project with confidence. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about roofing permits and inspections in our local area.
Why Permits and Inspections Protect You
Safety and Building Code Compliance
Building codes exist to establish minimum standards that protect public health and safety. Roofing permits ensure your project meets these standards, particularly regarding structural integrity and fire resistance.
Quality Workmanship Verification
Inspectors verify that work is being performed correctly by checking that materials and installation methods meet industry standards. This helps prevent issues like leaks, structural problems, and premature roof failure.
Investment Protection
A properly permitted and inspected roof can increase your home's value. When selling your home, permit documentation proves to potential buyers that work was completed legally and to code.
Legal and Financial Protection
Working without required permits can result in significant consequences:
Fines and penalties
Stop-work orders
Required removal of completed work
Complications with homeowners insurance
Difficulty selling your home
Getting Your Roofing Permit in Snohomish County: Step-by-Step
Does Your Project Need a Permit?
In Snohomish County, most roofing projects require permits, including:
Complete roof replacements
Structural repairs or modifications
Changing roofing materials
Major repairs affecting more than 25% of the roof area
Minor repairs such as fixing a few shingles typically don't require permits, but it's always best to check with your local building department before starting work.
Where to Apply
You can apply for permits through Snohomish County's Planning and Development Services department. They offer both online and in-person application options:
Online: Visit the Snohomish County Permit Portal
In-person: Visit the Planning and Development Services office during business hours
For King and Skagit Counties, similar services are available through their respective county websites.
Required Documentation
Prepare the following documents before applying:
Completed permit application form
Proof of property ownership
Project plans and specifications
Contractor information (if applicable)
Site plan showing the building location on your property
Height and size of the building
Submitting Your Application
Online submissions are typically processed more quickly than paper applications. The county's permit portal allows you to track the status of your application throughout the review process.
Understanding Permit Fees and Timelines
Permit fees in Snohomish County are based on the project's valuation. For a standard roof replacement on an average-sized home, expect to pay between $200-500 for the permit.
Processing times vary depending on application volume and complexity:
Simple re-roofs: 1-5 business days
Complex projects: 2-3 weeks
The Inspection Process: What to Expect
Overview of Inspection Stages
Residential roofing projects typically require two main inspections:
Tear-off/Dry-in Inspection: Conducted after the old roofing is removed but before new materials are installed. This allows inspectors to examine the roof deck for damage.
Final Inspection: Performed after all work is complete to verify proper installation and code compliance.
Scheduling Your Inspections
In Snohomish County, you can schedule inspections:
Online through the permit portal
By phone through the inspection request line
At least 24 hours in advance of when you need the inspection
Our team at Creative Roof Solutions can assist with scheduling inspections as part of our comprehensive roofing services.
What Inspectors Look For
Inspectors evaluate numerous aspects of your roofing project:
Roof Sheathing
Condition of plywood or OSB (checking for rot, damage, or deterioration)
Proper thickness for your roof type
Correct fastening pattern and spacing
Panel edge gaps for expansion
Underlayment and Water Barriers
Proper type of underlayment for your roof style
Correct installation with proper overlaps
Ice and water shield in valleys and along eaves (where required)
Adequate fastening
Flashing
Proper installation around chimneys, vents, skylights, and valleys
Correct material type and thickness
Appropriate overlap and counterflashing
Watertight seals at penetrations
Roofing Materials
Verification that installed materials match those specified in permit
Proper nailing pattern and placement
Correct exposure of shingles
Alignment and appearance
Ventilation
Adequate intake and exhaust vents
Proper spacing and installation
Required net free ventilation area
Drainage
Appropriate roof slope for water runoff
Proper installation of gutters and downspouts
Drainage away from the foundation
Common Reasons Why Inspections Fail
Being aware of frequent inspection issues can help you avoid delays:
Improper Nailing: Incorrect nail type, overdriven or underdriven nails, wrong nail pattern
Flashing Problems: Missing or improperly installed flashing around chimneys, vents, and valleys
Inadequate Ventilation: Insufficient vents or improper installation
Material Issues: Using materials different from what was specified in the permit
Structural Concerns: Unaddressed rot or damage in the roof deck or framing
Code Violations: Not meeting current building code requirements
How to Prepare for an Inspection
To help ensure a smooth inspection process:
Ensure the inspector has safe, clear access to the roof
Have the permit and approved plans available on site
Make sure all required safety equipment is in place
Have the responsible person (contractor or homeowner) available during inspection
Pre-check common failure points before the inspector arrives
Troubleshooting Inspection Issues
Receiving a Correction Notice
If your inspection doesn't pass, the inspector will issue a correction notice detailing what needs to be fixed. Don't worry—this is a common part of the process.
The correction notice will include:
Specific items that failed inspection
Code references for the violations
Instructions for next steps
Making Necessary Repairs
Address all items on the correction notice promptly:
Review the notice with your contractor
Make the required corrections
Document the changes made
Rescheduling the Inspection
Once corrections are complete:
Schedule a re-inspection through the same system you used initially
Ensure all items on the correction notice have been addressed
Have documentation of the corrections available for the inspector
Working with a Professional
Benefits of Hiring a Licensed Roofing Contractor
At Creative Roof Solutions, we offer significant advantages when it comes to navigating permits and inspections:
Familiarity with local codes and requirements
Established relationships with local building departments
Experience with the inspection process
Knowledge of common inspection issues and how to avoid them
Ability to handle permit applications and inspection scheduling
Ensuring Your Contractor Handles Permits Correctly
When hiring a roofing contractor, always:
Verify they are licensed and insured
Confirm they will obtain all necessary permits
Get written confirmation of who is responsible for scheduling inspections
Ask about their inspection pass rate
Request information about their warranty policy
Official Resources for Snohomish, Skagit, and King Counties
Snohomish County
Planning and Development Services: snohomishcountywa.gov/1190/Planning-Development-Services
Permit Information: snohomishcountywa.gov/2599/Permits
Inspection Scheduling: snohomishcountywa.gov/2566/Schedule-an-Inspection
Skagit County
Building and Planning Department: skagitcounty.net/Departments/PlanningAndDevelopment
Permit Center: skagitcounty.net/Departments/PlanningAndDevelopment/Permits
King County
Department of Local Services - Permitting Division: kingcounty.gov/depts/local-services/permits
Permit Information: kingcounty.gov/depts/local-services/permits/info
For professional roofing services in Snohomish, Skagit, and King Counties, including assistance with permits and inspections, contact Creative Roof Solutions. Our experienced team is here to guide you through every step of your roofing project, ensuring compliance with local building codes and delivering exceptional results that protect your home for years to come.